UNICEF India has named Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan as its National Ambassador, marking a significant step in her long-term commitment to advocating for children’s rights. The announcement was made yesterday, confirming Kareena’s transition from her previous role as a celebrity advocate, a position she held since 2014.
In her new capacity, the 43-year-old actress expressed her dedication to using her platform to amplify the voices of vulnerable children and champion their rights. Her focus will remain on critical areas such as early childhood development, education, and gender equality. “As India’s National Ambassador for UNICEF, I am committed to leveraging my platform to advocate for children’s rights, particularly in areas such as early childhood, education, and gender equality,” Kareena Kapoor Khan stated.
This appointment comes at a crucial time for UNICEF India as the organization ramps up its efforts to tackle pressing issues impacting children across the nation. With her vast influence and popularity, Kareena Kapoor Khan is expected to significantly boost UNICEF India’s mission to ensure every child’s right to a safe and nurturing childhood.
Additionally, UNICEF India has introduced its first group of Youth Advocates. This diverse cohort includes young leaders dedicated to various causes such as climate action, mental health, innovation, and promoting Girls in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Among the advocates are Gauranshi Sharma from Madhya Pradesh, focusing on disability inclusion and the right to play; Kartik Verma from Uttar Pradesh, who will champion climate action and child rights; Nahid Afrin from Assam, who is set to raise awareness on mental health and early childhood development; and Vinisha Umashankar from Tamil Nadu, a budding innovator and STEM pioneer.
Kareena Kapoor Khan’s appointment and the inauguration of the Youth Advocates program underline UNICEF India’s intensified efforts to address the diverse challenges faced by children across the country.